Toques, forecaps and caps

The hat and the cap are essential accessories to complete the professional kitchen outfit. They prevent the fall of hair or other foreign bodies in the prepared dishes. The work cap is used to standardize workwear.

The chef's hat, a traditional and professional outfit

The white cook coat is not an outfit complete work set without the hat. It's a kind of traditional image, but wearing it is a clue to recognize quality cuisine.

How to choose the right chef's hat?

Today, there are several types of toques. It is therefore important to make the right choice based on three things: your budget, your needs and your look.

The fabric hat

High and starched, the traditional toque is not always very comfortable. But more modern versions are now more suitable. Made of cotton or polycotton, it is easy to machine wash. Being more flexible and comfortable than the old ones, these toques also have the advantage of  absorbing the sweat of the cook.

The disposable hat

Being lightweight and anti-allergy treated, disposable hats are mainly made of paper or non-woven material. They are one size and adapt to all head sizes, in particular thanks to a self-adhesive adjustment band.

The chef's cap

Made of fabric or paper, the caps allow you to inject a touch of originality into the kitchen. They are worn close to the head and fitted with ties.

The Bandana

Made of fabric, the bandanas can be used to hold the cook's hair. Its shape is perfect for absorbing sweat and its use is recommended during the season summer.

What are the advantages of wearing a hat?

The use of toques is essential to maintain proper hygiene when preparing food.

First, wearing a chef's hat in the kitchen prevents hair loss in food. It absorbs sweat from the forehead and gives status to the cook. Finally, it provides better aesthetics for the chef.

The different types of chef's hats

There are several models of hats today, but here are the 6 most popular:

French or mushroom type:Very useful for collecting hair and guaranteeing the absorption of sweat, this model is the most used by cooks all over the world.

Military type: Not covering the top of the head, it is used by people with very short hair. It is usually worn by butchers or bakers.

Tubular type: Resembling a long tube that rises from the head, it is commonly used by the chef.

Cap type with visor: This model is very popular among cooks who wear long hair. Adapted perfectly to the head, this type of cap prevents the hat from falling in the constant movements of the cook.

Bandana type: Used by cooks with short hair due to its arrangement, it allows the absorption of sweat on the forehead.

Paper Toque: It is made of paper and very hygienic in the kitchen.

The different roles of the work cap

Made to bring comfort according to the season, the cap can protect from the sun thanks to the visor. It's also designed to be breathable to wick away perspiration. Finally, the cap can also protect you against the extreme cold thanks to a fleece fabric.

In the catering sector, the disposable fishnet cap is particularly used. Its role is to prevent hair from falling in a given space. For outdoor work, high visibility caps are used to increase the visibility of the wearer. Fitted with reflective strips, they make it easier to distinguish the wearer when visibility is very low.

Kitchen Cap Pattern: Portwest Kitchen Cap

Available in two colors, this kitchen caphas adjustable straps. It is made of Kingsmill fabric with 65% Polyester and 35% Cotton.

Kitchen hat model: Albertville kitchen hat

The Albertville Kitchen Toque has a self-closing tab for a better fit as well as a wide 10 cm wide band.

Work cap model: Air Tech ventilated bump cap

Offering maximum ventilation, the Air Tech Bump Cap has a modern textile design. It is suitable for all uses and is easily adjusted at the back with a buckle.